From Excel to sports, games and music

Nico’s journey has been remarkable, full of unexpected twists and turns: from leading meetings in gleaming offices in the Zuidas district to the living room of an Amsterdam daycare center. What’s it like to suddenly step from a busy business world into the world of Parkinson’s and dementia patients? Nico shares his story of meaning, connection, and unexpected joy.

As a qualified accountant, Nico built an impressive career in so-called fintech, or companies that use technology to improve financial services, with stints at startups in Moscow and Nairobi. Almost two years ago, he returned to the Netherlands and found work in banking again. But six months ago, he felt the need for something different: work that truly has meaning and makes a social impact.

A man in healthcare takes some getting used to

That’s how he came across a message from the Amsterdam Volunteer Center looking for people to help with day care at Club Amstelring in Leo Polak Osdorp. Nico seemed interested, even though he had no experience in healthcare. It turned out he didn’t need any. He was welcomed with open arms, though one of the women in the group initially didn’t like this “professor,” as she called him. A man in the welfare or healthcare sector simply takes some getting used to.

But Nico also managed to break the ice with her. He’s active two days a week in the group, which includes people with Parkinson’s and dementia, among other conditions. The day begins around 10:30 a.m., when the people are dropped off.

And then the program begins. I usually start with the newspaper. I pick out today’s paper and select a few articles to discuss further—not always about the situation in Gaza or something. I often try to connect the articles to people’s lives through them. For example, if there’s something about Paris in the newspaper, I ask if anyone has ever been to Paris. And then a bit of a conversation starts. We try to do that with a bit of humor and a quip. After the newspaper, it’s time for something with music and movement, a bit of dancing to music, or a game. We try to make it a pleasant and fun day.

Another world

Now, after six months, Nico feels like a fish in water. The work “gives a sense of purpose,” and he receives a lot of appreciation and gratitude from the people in the day care center and their families. It’s also energizing to see the group enjoying themselves and being able to offer them a warm environment. Nico’s enjoyment is evident from the fact that even when he and his wife were on vacation, he still wanted to attend a farewell party for one of the day care workers.

Working with the other volunteers and the permanent staff is also a pleasure. “I feel completely at home here. When I come in, we first have a cup of coffee, and everyone is interested in you. I would wholeheartedly recommend this kind of work environment to everyone.” Colleague and permanent activities coordinator Sumeyra wholeheartedly agrees: “Our volunteers are very special and all different. Nico is truly with and among the people. I think the secret of our team is that we are a team with a gentle nature, which is why we can offer a lot of warmth and love, including to the volunteers. Well, you can’t find that in the Zuidas district,” Sumeyra adds with a little quip.

Future

Nico does plan to return to paid work, and this experience has reinforced his desire to find a new paid position with social relevance, where connecting with people plays a significant role. Healthcare could be a perfect fit. Firstly, because the work gives you the feeling of doing something good, that you’re socially relevant, and secondly, there’s a lot happening in healthcare that’s interesting to be involved in. But he would definitely like to continue volunteering one day a week: “for myself, but also for the people here, especially because changes can have a significant impact on people with Parkinson’s, for example.”

Nico has clearly caught the volunteer virus!

Also looking for volunteer work?

Club Amstelring in Leo Polak Osdorp is looking for these people!

Looking for something different? We’re happy to help! There’s always volunteer work to suit your interests and lifestyle. At twenty locations in Amsterdam, you can schedule  a personal consultation with free, personalized advice . Prefer to search yourself? Our  online job board contains around 1,000 volunteer openings . You can easily filter by your preferences and respond directly to a call from a community organization.

Interview: Piet Renooy
Photos: Marcel Jansen